Depression can be a difficult illness to recognize even in the ones close to us, and that's a hard pill to swallow. As there is such a stigma associated with it (especially so with males) the person suffering may well be trying to hide their struggle. If someone you know seems to be acting out of character or exhibits any of the behavior below, it is so important to start a dialogue - you could make a huge difference to their life if you do so.
"Depression can be a difficult illness to recognize even in the ones close to us, and that's a hard pill to swallow"
Everyone's experiences and symptoms are different, but there are some common signs to keep and eye out for:
1. Lack of Interest in Social Interaction
If a friend or family member seems to be less interested in spending time socially, it may be an indication they are suffering from depression. This change in character can be easily overlooked, but individuals will often withdraw from their social circles - as addressed in this campaign by Time to Change.
2. Eating Habits
This can go either way, with some people having a lack of appetite and others eating a great deal more than they used to. This might mean their weight fluctuates.
3. Sleeping Problems
Sleep is integral to a healthy mind and body, and an increase or decrease can signify larger problems. Sleep disorders are often linked to depression, with sufferers likely to experience insomnia or are unable to sleep through the night. This in turn means people have an increase in fatigue.
4. Negative Thoughts
It is common for people with depression to express negative thoughts and seem pessimistic. Everyone has days when they feel hopeless, but if this behavior is consistent over a long period of time it could indicate an underlying mental issue.
"Sleep is integral to a healthy mind and body, and an increase or decrease can signify larger problems"
5. Anhedonia
This is a term that describes the loss of pleasure. Activities they previously enjoyed don't give them the same amount of joy, and they may seem distant or uninterested. This goes for professional as well as social (and even sexual) situations.
6. Anger and Mood Swings
It can be hard for people with depression to control their emotions, so they may be susceptible to mood swings or be irritable. You should not take this personally as this is a sign of their illness.
"....may be susceptible to mood swings or be irritable"
7. Interactions with Drugs and Alcohol
Some sufferers use drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with their depression. They may become reliant on substances, or increase their intake (such as smoking more).
8. Self-Harm and Preoccupation with Death
Self-harm is another coping mechanism people may use as a way to deal with their emotions. Additionally, they may bring up the topic of death or not "being around" in conversation.
As mentioned above not everyone experiences depression in the same way, but if you have any indication someone close to you is suffering, it's crucial to start a conversation and assist them in getting the help they need. Check out our post on 5 People You Can Talk to About Depression for some suggestions on how to move forward.
The Lions Barber Collectivee has made a commitment to removing the stigma associated with mental illness to encourage men to #manupandtalk. For more information about our projects and to get involved visit our website and like us on Facebook.
Kimberley Parker
No comments:
Post a Comment